The RSPCA is appealing for information after a young dog was found abandoned in a crate filled with faeces.
The crossbreed, named Nova, was discovered on September 25 by council workers in a block of flats in Eversley, Skelmersdale.
She weighed just 8kg and was heavily infested with fleas, which had caused her hair to thin and fall out in several areas.
The dog was immediately taken to Potter House Vets in Up Holland, where she was treated by the team.
A scan revealed she was microchipped, but the details had not been kept up to date.
The RSPCA is now appealing to anyone who recognises her to get in touch.
It is believed she had never worn a collar or been on a walk, and the vet who treated her said it was clear 'she had never felt grass under her feet before.'
Elliot Kirwan, director and veterinary surgeon at Potter House Vets, said: "The whole team has been affected by this horrendous and completely preventable situation.
"Nova still has a long way to go but she’s heading in the right direction.
"It was absolutely heartbreaking to see her in this condition, but amazing how she still has this level of trust and love for humans after the way she’s been treated by them."
RSPCA animal collection officer David Hatton, who is investigating the incident, said: "Nova had been callously left in a filthy crate, surrounded by faeces and dirty bedding.
"It would appear whoever she belonged to had decided to simply wash their hands of her.
"Understandably, she was scared and bewildered by what was happening.
"Like me, the team at Potter House Vets, who have done a wonderful job looking after her, were incredibly upset to see a dog who doesn't appear to have received even the most basic level of care."
The charity has been making enquiries over the past week.
People living in the block of flats have said they don’t recognise the dog or know who she belongs to, and there is no CCTV at the property.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the RSPCA’s appeals line, in complete confidence, on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference number 01359788.
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